New cycle hub created at Sunderland’s National Glass Centre

A NEW cycle hub is set to be created at the National Glass Centre to coincide with the 20th anniversary of the Coast2Coast cycle route.

The proposals include a picnic area with fixed seating, a repair stand, cycle pump, cycle stands and vertical cycle lockers.

Plans also include a cycle port, in the shape of a car, in one of the existing car parking bays to separate bikes from other vehicles.

A planning application has been submitted by Sunderland University in time for the anniversary this summer of the C2C, as well as The Big Bike Ride, which will be held on May 18.

The cycle hub would be constructed on the south west corner of the main building, just off the riverside boulevard, which is part of the C2C cycle route. The various parts will be built from grey powder-coated concrete, steel and glass, to match the main building. The plans have been created in conjunction with travel plan officers from Sunderland City Council, to replace existing cycle facilities for staff, students and visitors to the National Glass Centre.

The vertical storage lockers would be installed to the east of the building, next to the staff carpark one of the bays will be closed off to act as a buffer to protects bikes from cars.

CCTV coverage of the south-west corner and the north elevation of the building, will also be improved to increase security.

“The client appears to have clearly developed a proposed scheme, working in partnership with the University of Sunderland, building management of the National Glass Centre and travel officers from the local authority,” the planning application states.

“This report illustrates a clear acknowledgement of the National Glass Centre, its iconic status and its importance to improve public realm in collaboration with the C2C cycle route.”